Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus being sidelined for the foreseeable future is an ‘undeniably damaging blow’, according to journalist Ryan Taylor.

The Lowdown: Out of the World Cup

The Premier League star was named in Tite’s 26-man squad to represent Brazil at the World Cup, where his side have recently secured their place in the quarter-finals to take on Croatia on Friday.

However, the 25-year-old was in discomfort during the group game against Cameroon and has since been ruled out of the rest of the tournament, where his absence is set to extend when he returns to the Emirates Stadium.

The Latest: Taylor’s reaction

Taking to Twitter, Taylor reacted to Jesus’ gutting injury news after it emerged he would need to undergo surgery to rectify the problem.

“Arsenal confirm Gabriel Jesus has undergone successful surgery on right knee after sustaining injury in Brazil’s 1-0 World Cup defeat to Cameroon. No timeframe on return. Huge opportunity for Eddie Nketiah, one he has been waiting for. Must deliver. Undeniably damaging blow.”

The Verdict: Blow for Arteta

The Gunners learning that Jesus is out for the long term will come as a hammer blow to Mikel Arteta, who will recognise the instant impact he’s made in the capital.

Since his arrival, the forward has clocked up 12 goal contributions in 20 outings across all competitions and was averaging 3.6 shots per top-flight game, serving as the focal point for the attacking trio behind him.

Nketiah will now be given a run in the team to prove himself, though it would be wise for Edu to enter the market for a more senior replacement should anything happen to the academy graduate.